While most of the world's cases of female genital mutilation (FGM) are in Africa, countries originally thought to be "free" of the practice are finding that it does indeed exist. In Pakistan, recent medical school graduates claim they have seen patients who have suffered from FGM. The Bohra community and the Sheedi ethnic community are thought to be involved in the practice. Not all female members of either group face FGM, but over half are believed to have faced at least a partial cutting.
The World Health Organization defines FGM as any "procedures that intentionally alter or inure female genital organs for non-medical reasons." The Organization estimates that anywhere between 100 million and 140 million girls and women are living with FGM. Most of these cases are reported from Africa, but even in countries considered "free" of the practice, reports surface of incidences in specific regions and cultural groups.
Compiled from: Pakistan: Low Awareness of Hidden FGM/C Practices, IRIN: Humanitarian News and Analysis (26 December 2011).